Pasay city: National University (NU) commenced its title defense with a decisive victory over University of Santo Tomas (UST), securing a 25-22, 29-27, 25-19 win in the UAAP Season 88 men's volleyball tournament at Mall of Asia Arena.
According to Philippines News Agency, Michaelo Buddin led NU with 16 points, comprising 11 attacks, three kill blocks, and two aces, in addition to eight excellent receptions. This victory allowed NU to share the lead with other opening-weekend winners, including University of the Philippines, Far Eastern University, and Adamson University. Leo Ordiales added 11 points, with contributions from Jade Disquitado and Peng Taguibolos, who scored eight points each. Greg Ancheta provided 17 excellent sets, while Obed Mukaba contributed five points.
NU coach Dante Alinsunurin expressed satisfaction with the team's performance, emphasizing their control of blocking despite some shortcomings in offense and receiving. He highlighted the importance of defensive rebounds, noting the good performance despite mistakes.
The match saw critical plays, with Taguibolos making a quick attack and a significant block on Josh Yba±ez to thwart UST's late challenge in the first set. UST showed resilience in the second set, reaching set point, but NU saved two match points with decisive plays from Disquitado and Mukaba, securing a 2-0 lead.
Alinsunurin acknowledged the pressure of high expectations for his team, despite his happiness with the win. UST's Yba±ez, a two-time Most Valuable Player, tallied eight points and 15 receptions, with additional support from Trevor Valera and Sherwin Umandal, who each contributed eight points.
NU's next match is scheduled against Adamson University on Feb. 18 at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion in Manila, while UST will face De La Salle University on Feb. 22 at Mall of Asia Arena.
